Cinque Terre

It think two nights in Cinque Terry is fine if you don't plan a lot of hiking and activities. For us a week in Florence is too much. Very busy and expensive city. And I have never been to Assisi, maybe some one has and can give you an idea.

Direct trains from Florence to Assisi take 2.5 hours each way, which is a bit long for a roundtrip in one day. Both Assisi and Cinque Terre are nice for overnight stops, so you can experience some quieter hours of the day, without the daytrip crowds, watch the sunset from the hilltop, etc. Of course, you can also escape the crowds by walking a few block off the most direct road to/from St. Francis' Basilica. I would trim down the week in Florence to facilitate a stay in Assisi or another hill town. Packing light is important when navigating both trains and hilly towns like Vernazza and Assisi.

Trish, you've chosen a winner with Camere Guiliano! It is a sweet bed and breakfast and the owner, Giuliano will meet your train, carry your bags, try to make sure your stay is comfortable, give advice on places to eat, feed you well, and even walk you through the town personally! One of my cousins had her honeymoon there and was charmed by him. He is an artist and stonecutter and did a lot of work in the town. You'll see his work in the inn and in your bedroom. My cousin showed me photos and is still gushing over the place and Guiliano.

We have lived in Florence so I can tell you a week is the minimum for that city. It is just such a wonderful city. Now here I am gushing! Cinque Terre is certainly worth a couple of days. Assisi is a day trip at best for us.